FAQs

Suboxone is a highly effective treatment for opioid addiction, but many people have questions about it. For example, what exactly is Suboxone, what side effects may occur, and how does it work? Is Suboxone considered an opiate? What are the risks of mixing Suboxone with alcohol? At Journey Medical, we’re here to provide answers so you can feel confident about using Suboxone MAT Prescription Therapy as part of your recovery plan.

Suboxone is a medication made up of two active ingredients: buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is the main ingredient that helps reduce withdrawal symptoms, while naloxone is added to prevent misuse and dependency. When taken as prescribed, naloxone has no effect, but if abused (such as intravenously), it can induce severe withdrawal symptoms. This dual action helps make Suboxone a safer and more effective choice for treating opioid addiction.

Understanding the side effects of Suboxone is important for anyone starting treatment. One common concern is the potential for allergic reactions, such as hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling in the face, tongue, or throat. If you experience these, stop taking Suboxone immediately and contact your healthcare provider.

Other known side effects include difficulty breathing, dizziness, weakness, headaches, back pain, rapid heart rate, sleep disturbances, and increased fatigue. If you experience trouble breathing or other severe symptoms, seek medical attention right away.

Many people wonder if Suboxone is classified as an opiate. While Suboxone does contain an opioid component, it is more complex than a typical opiate. Opiates are natural substances that bind to receptors in the brain to produce pain relief and euphoria. Suboxone contains buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, meaning it activates opioid receptors but to a lesser extent than full opioids. It produces similar effects but with a reduced potential for euphoria and misuse, making it a safer option for addiction treatment.

It’s strongly advised not to mix Suboxone with alcohol. Combining the two can amplify the side effects of both, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and increased fatigue. Additionally, mixing Suboxone with alcohol can increase your tolerance to both substances, leading to higher doses being required for the same effect and increasing the risk of dependence. If you’re taking other medications alongside Suboxone, it’s important to consult your doctor beforehand to ensure safety.